Breadcrumb

Baird Meets with Israel’s Finance Minister

April 9, 2013 - Jerusalem - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird meets with Yair Lapid, Israel’s Minister of Finance, during one of several high-level meetings in Jerusalem.

Baird reiterated that Canada strongly supports Israel’s right to defend itself and its right to live in peace with its neighbours, within secure boundaries. Canada also supports the creation of an independent Palestinian state as part of a negotiated, two-state solution with Israel.

The ministers also discussed their countries’ shared economic priorities, such as leveraging private-sector support for research and development so that innovation can thrive.

Canada’s ties with Israel are very deep, and the friendship is important. Building on these ties and finding ways to increase trade is a government priority, as outlined recently by Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Canada is committed to creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity, which can benefit families in both countries.